U of L coach Charlie Strong.

What's new in 2012?

The Cardinals don't have many new faces, which is why the potential for a special season is so high. The roster represents coach Charlie Strong's most experienced team in his four seasons at the helm. That's why U of L earned its highest preseason ranking ever at No. 9 in the AP media and USA Today/Coaches polls.

The MVP

Teddy Bridgewater is the single player on the squad who simply can't be replaced.After being somewhat of a reluctant leader in his first two seasons, he has embraced the role this season. He'll be a Heisman Trophy contender but is content to let his play do his campaigning without additional hype.

Player with something to prove

Michael Dyer has more to prove off the field than on it. In accepting the former Auburn running back as a transfer, Strong also shouldered some controversy. Dyer's talent is unquestioned - he broke Bo Jackson's Auburn freshman rushing record - but he came to U of L with baggage after being dismissed from two programs. He left Auburn after failing a drug test and was released by Arkansas State when a traffic stop yielded marijuana and a gun. Dyer signed a behavior contract with U of L that spells out a zero tolerance policy. The success of his season will be judged more by whether he stays out of trouble than if he gains 1,000 yards.

Impact newcomers

The wealth of experience on the roster is such that not many freshmen will make an impact. That's why receiver James Quick is so special. The former Trinity High School star probably will be in the rotation at U of L's deepest position and also could see action as a return specialist.

Besides Dyer, plenty of transfers will take the field for the first time, including junior tight end Gerald Christian (Florida), whose mix of size, strength and pass-catching ability brings new dimensions to the position.

Expect receiver Robert Clark, Christian's former teammate with the Gators, also to make an immediate impact. He could start as the slot receiver and will return kickoffs.

The most unsung

George Durant probably wouldn't be starting if sophomore Keith Brown was healthy, but the senior has been labeled the "brains of the linebackers" by his teammates. He'll be the one to call out formations and make sure his teammates are properly aligned.

Most likely to break a big play (offense)

Junior receiver DeVante Parker led the Cards in touchdown receptions in each of the past two seasons. His 10 touchdown catches last year tied for the second-best season in school history. He also averaged 18.6 yards per catch, which ranked 15th in the FBS.

Most likely to break a big play (defense)

Mr. Pick-Six himself, junior cornerback Terell Floyd,etched himself into U of L history when he ran back an interception for a touchdown on Florida's first play from scrimmage in the Sugar Bowl last January. He led the team with three interceptions last season, and each was a big one. His pick against Cincinnati in overtime allowed the Cardinals to win on their first possession, and he stopped Rutgers' final drive to seal a share of the Big East title.

Must-win game

The Cards have just five days between their game at Temple on Oct. 5 and their Oct. 10 home game against Rutgers, which could make the latter especially tricky. The good news is that the Scarlet Knights have the same scheduling issue, traveling to Southern Methodist on Oct. 5.

Potential upset

U of L has won at South Florida only once, and the Bulls nearly pulled off an upset last season at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium. But that's not the game to circle. Conference newcomer Central Florida could be the more dangerous game. The Golden Knights' offense, led by quarterback Blake Bortles, could be the one to match the Cards' scoring power.

Position changes to watch

Charlie Strong has been successful at moving players around (such as switching Marcus Smith from quarterback to linebacker to defensive end.) Three moves in particular could have an impact this season. Junior Jamon Brown moved from right to left offensive tackle, where he must protect Bridgewater's blind side. B.J. Butler converted from defensive lineman to a tight end/fullback hybrid. Sophomore Charles Gaines switched from receiver to cornerback.

Shoes to fill

The Cards have had essentially two centers over the past eight seasons: Eric Wood and Mario Benavides. Junior Jake Smith will try his hand at the position after starting at right guard the past two years.